Kate & Pippin: An Unlikely Love Story



Last updated Sunday, January 26, 2014

Author: Martin Springett
Date of Publication: 2012
ISBN: 0805094873
Grade Level: 2nd    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Feb. 2014

Synopsis: When Pippin, a fawn abandoned by her mother, cries out for help, she is found by author Isobel Springett. After carrying the tiny fawn back to her home, Isobel places Pippin next to Kate, a Great Dane who has never had puppies of her own. What follows is a remarkable and unlikely friendship. Kate successfully raises Pippin to be an independent deer, and Pippin always returns from the forest to visit her best friend. With simple text and stunning photographs, Kate and Pippin, and their one-of-a-kind friendship, come to life in an irresistible way!

Note to readers:
•  This is a true story. After reading the book, show the back cover & read about the author and his sister, the photographer.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Have you ever seen a fawn, a deer or any other wild animals?
•  Do you know of any unlikely animal friendships?
•  Do you have any pets?

Vocabulary:
•  fawn - a young deer; especially : one in its first year
•  nuzzle - to lie close; nestle
•  contentedly - satisfied
•  forage - search for food

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  How did Kate help Pippin?
•  Why couldn't Pippin stay with Kate forever?
•  Which is your favorite picture of Kate & Pippin?
•  Do you think Kate & Pippin would have gotten along if Pippin had been full grown when they first met?
•  What other types of animals do you think could get along like Kate & Pippin?

Craft ideas:
•  Make your own picture collage or photo album. Draw or cut out pictures of different kinds of animals and put together.
•  Make valentines pictures or cards.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!